This site is in beta. We are still smoothing out rough edges. If you spot something wrong or have a suggestion, tell us on the contact page.

English Language Student Visa processing time

As at 16 October 2026, 50% of recent English Language Student Visa applications were processed within 3 weeks and 80% within 7 weeks, per Immigration New Zealand's published figures.

Figures as at 16 October 2026, captured daily.

Trend

Daily captures of INZ's published figures, in calendar days.

50% within3 weeks21 days on 16 Oct, 25 on 29 Jun
80% within7 weeks49 days on 16 Oct, 65 on 29 Jun
Longest 80% in the period65 days29 Jun to 13 Jul
As at16 Oct2026, 105 daily captures

Tap or drag across the chart to read a day.

Captured50% within80% within
3 July 202625 days65 days
10 July 202625 days65 days
17 July 202623 days57 days
24 July 202623 days57 days
31 July 202623 days57 days
7 August 202624 days58 days
14 August 202623 days57 days
21 August 202623 days57 days
28 August 202623 days57 days
4 September 202623 days53 days
11 September 202623 days53 days
18 September 202623 days53 days
25 September 202623 days53 days
2 October 202623 days53 days
9 October 202621 days49 days
16 October 202621 days49 days

Captured daily from 29 June 2026 to 16 October 2026. No capture on 5 days in the period.

About this visa

Apply for this visa to study an English language course full-time in New Zealand. You will need to pay the full cost of your courses and enrol with an approved education provider.

Frequently asked questions

As at 16 October 2026, Immigration New Zealand reports that 50% of recent English Language Student Visa applications were completed within 3 weeks and 80% within 7 weeks. Individual applications can take longer, particularly if INZ requests further information.

The published figures are percentiles of recently decided applications, not a promise. Applications that are incomplete, need verification, or raise health, character or genuineness questions routinely exceed them. If your application is far outside the 80% figure, you can contact INZ or engage a licensed immigration adviser or immigration lawyer to follow up.

Other study visas

Thinking about professional help with this application? See what immigration advisers charge, browse licensed immigration advisers by city or verified immigration lawyers.

Sources

Application stuck or complicated?

A licensed immigration adviser or immigration lawyer can review where it is at. Send one enquiry and we will connect you with a licensed professional.

Get help